ALUMNI STORIES
Your story is part of the rich tapestry that is the Hebrew University. Share your experiences, insights, and achievements with our global community. By contributing to our vibrant community blog, you can showcase the diverse paths taken by our alumni. Together, let's weave a narrative that inspires future generations
Nataliya Minskii
Graduation Year: 2026
Faculty/Department: MBA Med-Tech Innovation Program
Current Job Title: CEO
Organation: Frienddy
Industry: HealthTech
For Nataliya Minskii, the Hebrew University’s MBA Med-Tech Innovation Program is more than an academic program. This is where Frienddy, an AI-powered wearable coaching platform designed to help children with autism live more independently, got its start.
The Med-Tech program brought together people from diverse backgrounds and fields of expertise, including neuroscience, computer science, business, and healthcare. It was there that Nataliya met her co-founders and began building a team around a shared mission. The program also connected her with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and innovation organizations, helping turn their idea into a working product.
Since graduating, Nataliya has led Frienddy through product pilots with families, collaborations with autism specialists, and partnerships with hospitals, autism centers, and startup accelerators in Israel. The company is now preparing for international expansion.
“When I think back on my time at HUJI, what stands out most is the people,” Nataliya says. Studying alongside classmates from different professional, cultural, and national backgrounds broadened her perspective and shaped her experience in the program.
As a mother to a child with autism, Nataliya is passionate about extending therapeutic support beyond the clinic and into everyday life. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay committed to the problem they want to solve, remain open to feedback, and adapt without losing sight of their mission.
Looking ahead, Nataliya hopes to shape the future of healthcare through technologies that improve quality of life and empower neurodiverse individuals and their families to live with greater independence and confidence.
Connect with Nataliya on LinkedIn.
Sally Shami
Graduation Year: 2017
Faculty/Department: MA in Non-profit Management and Leadership
Current Job Title: Resource Development Manager / Entrepreneur
Organation: Lutheran World Federation & Salam Social Enterprise
Industry: Non-profit; Social Entrepreneurship
Sally Shami, an alumna from Hebrew University’s MA in Nonprofit Management and Leadership Program, has built a dynamic career dedicated to community empowerment, resource development, and social impact. Currently serving as a Resource Development Manager at the Lutheran World Federation in East Jerusalem, Sally mobilizes vital support for healthcare projects and institutional growth. Beyond her international development work, she is also the founder of Salam, a social enterprise created to support Palestinian women artisans, generate economic opportunities, and preserve traditional embroidery and cultural heritage.
Sally reflects on her time at Hebrew University as a defining turning point that provided her with the academic foundation and confidence to transition into the non-profit sector. She fondly recalls an Organizational Theory class where students were asked to observe a live demonstration outside and reflect on their varied interpretations. "Although we all observed the same event, each student interpreted it differently based on their background and assumptions," Sally shares. "This taught me the importance of listening, questioning first impressions, and considering different perspectives, a lesson that remains invaluable when working with diverse communities and global partners."
Her cross-sector expertise has allowed her to seamlessly navigate complex donor compliance, youth training at Bethlehem Business Incubator, and mental health advocacy through localized media content. Driven by a commitment to grassroots empowerment, Sally continues to mentor young professionals while balancing her career with family life as a mother to her two children, Mustafa and Yazan. Looking forward, she aspires to step into senior leadership, expand Salam to wider international markets, and pursue a PhD at Hebrew University.
Her advice to students: "Choose the best available opportunity instead of waiting for the perfect one, and don't let other people's fears shape your decisions. Feeling unprepared does not mean you are incapable; confidence often comes after taking the first step, not before. Passion is important, but clear systems, continuous learning, and disciplined management turn ideas into lasting impact."
Connect with Sally on LinkedIn to learn more about her work!
Njweng Nde Fon
Graduation Year: 2024
Faculty/Department: Faculty of Medicine, Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine
Current Job Title: Doctor of Medicine
Organation: Solidarity Hospital Buea, South West Region Cameroon
Industry: Public Health
Since receiving her International Master of Public Health (IMPH) from the Braun School of Public Health & Community Medicine at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2024, Njweng Nde Fon has continued her commitment to improving global health. She completed her second masters in Global Sexual and Reproductive Health at Dalarna University in Sweden, and is currently on the pathway to Swedish medical licensure "I want learn how high-performing healthcare systems work so I can bring those insights back home and help strengthen our own," she says.
Njweng dreams of a world in which women in low and middle-income have access to high-quality reproductive healthcare and are empowered through education about their health.
One of her proudest achievements since graduating has been leading a sickle cell trait screening initiative in Cameroon that has led to the screening of more than 2,500 young people of reproductive age with the goal of Sickle cell disease prevention through self and partner status knowledge. In partnership with the Solidarity Health Foundation and Health Education and Research Organization Cameroon, she has visited classrooms and appeared on radio and television programs to raise awareness and combat stigma. Another aspect she is really proud of is learning the Swedish language and working in healthcare with it.
She fondly remembers her time at HUJI, especially the friendships she formed with her classmates. She recalls evenings at the Braun School bonding over thesis stress, hummus, and far too much coffee, as well as walks through the Ein Kerem Village after classes. Being surrounded by so much history while dreaming about the future made her time in Israel more than just a year of study; it became a defining chapter of her life.
Her advice to current students and fellow alumni is to remember that while your degree may open doors, compassion is what earns you a place at the table. She believes that actively listening to the needs of the communities you serve leads to the most sustainable solutions and encourages others to always lead with empathy.
Finally, be rich in people's currency. The friendships you forge during your studies and the relationships you build throughout your life's journey will become your greatest asset. Degrees may shape your career, but people will shape your life.
Connect with Njweng on LinkedIn to follow her journey in public health promotion.
Becky Choi
Graduation Year: 2025
Faculty/Department: MA in Smart Cities & Urban Informatics
Current Job Title: Regulatory Operations Associate
Company : DoorDash
Industry: Finance
Working at the intersection of technology, regulation, and public policy, HUJI alumna Becky Choi has built a dynamic career focused on the public interest. Since earning her MA in Smart Cities & Urban Informatics at the Hebrew University in 2025, she has contributed to the G20 Global Smart City Alliances at the World Economic Forum, worked as a regulatory and policy analyst on emerging technology and telecom policy across international markets, and now serves as a Regulatory Operations Associate at DoorDash, where she conducts regulatory review and works to ensure the company's growth aligns with the needs of local communities.
Becky remains committed to giving back to her community through her involvement with Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP) in Washington, DC, where she helps organize events and mentors early-career professionals pursuing careers in international affairs.
Whether through her regulatory work at DoorDash or her volunteer engagement with YPFP, she strives to ensure that technology serves people effectively and equitably.
Her fondest memories from HUJI include pitching a public safety AI platform in class. It was a moment when policy, technology, and real-world impact came together, reinforcing her passion for a career at the intersection of technology and the public good, a throughline she now carries into her work helping DoorDash grow responsibly in the communities it serves.
Her advice to current students and fellow alumni is to embrace unconventional paths and invest in technical skills. "Leaning into variety, rather than feeling pressured to follow a single linear track, has made me a stronger analyst and a more adaptable professional," she says. Becky also emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships through mentorship, collaboration, and genuine curiosity.
Michel Gorden
Graduation Year: 2016
Faculty/Department: MA in Islamic & Middle Eastern Studies
Current Job Title: Risk Manager
Organization: Safra Bank
Industry: Finance
Financial risk manager by day and Middle East historian by night, HUJI alumnus Michel Gordon leads a busy life. Since graduating with an MA in Islamic & Middle Eastern Studies from the Rothberg International School, his proudest accomplishment is the publication of his third book, Life and Legacy: A Window into Jewish Heritage Across the Middle East, which explores the history and culture of Jewish Life Across the Islamic World.
For more than two decades, Michel has documented Jewish communities throughout the Islamic world through travel, photography, and independent research, preserving stories that are often overlooked in contemporary discussions of the Middle East.
Beyond his professional career, Michel teaches courses on the Middle East, Jewish communities in Islamic civilizations, and the modern history of Israel, engaging students and broader audiences interested in Jewish history and the Middle East.
Michel remembers the atmosphere on HUJI’s Mount Scopus campus with deep fondness. Surrounded by trees, the Botanical Garden, and the unique sounds of Jerusalem, from the rustling wind to the evening call to prayer, he found the campus to be a place of both tranquility and inspiration.
His advice to future students is simple: "Seek understanding before judgment. The most interesting stories are often found where different worlds meet."
Suvi Kauppinen
Graduation Year: 2021
Faculty/Department: MA in Nonprofit Management and Leadership
Current Job Title: Programmes Manager
Organization: World Without Orphans Europe
Industry: Non-Profit Sector
Suvi Kauppinen, a graduate of the Hebrew University’s MA in Non-profit Management and Leadership program, fondly remembers participating in a field course visiting Israeli NGOs despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
After graduating, Suvi became Programmes Manager at World Without Orphans Europe, where she helped organize the organization’s first European Forum in 2023 for partners supporting orphaned and vulnerable children across Europe. The event received positive feedback and another forum was held in Bucharest, Romania in 2026.
Suvi is also involved in a new initiative in Finland encouraging churches to support vulnerable children through fostering, adoption, and community-based children’s programs. In 2024, her team secured a three-year governmental grant to support the project.
Currently Suvi and her husband are developing a tourist company (All Seasons Lapland) to give visitors from countries such as Israel and France a local experience of Lapland’s nature.
Her advice to others is to start small and stay faithful to the opportunities in front of you, trust and greater responsibility grow from consistently managing the little things well. Through her work, Suvi hopes more children will grow up in families rather than orphanages or institutions.
Connect with Suvi on LinkedIn to learn more about her important work in the nonprofit sector.
Tammy Kohn
Graduation Year: 2008
Faculty/Department: BA in Art History and Jewish Thought
Current Job Title: Executive Director and Chief Curator
Organization: Jewish Museum of Buenos Aires
Industry: Arts & Museums
Since graduating the Hebrew University, where she completed her dual BA in Art History and Jewish Thought, Tammy Kohn has worked at Jewish cultural institutions, from Yad Vashem in Jerusalem and the Jewish Museum in New York to the Metropolitan Museum. She currently serves as the director of the Jewish Museum of Buenos Aires. Tammy focuses on using exhibitions and research to tell stories that connect people to their history and identity.
One of Tammy’s key achievements was receiving the Christie’s Grant for Nazi-era Provenance Research, which allowed her to deepen her doctoral work on German Judaica in Argentina and apply it directly to museum practice. She also organized the first-ever seminar for Jewish museums and professionals throughout Latin America.
Tammy remembers the Hebrew University as her home for four years where she made friends who became family, learned Hebrew, and fell in love with research. “I can’t forget the campus, the buildings, the classrooms, or the incredible relationships I had with my HUJI professors, many of whom I’m still in touch with today,” she says.
One insight Tammy’s learned is that curating isn’t just about putting objects on display. It’s about listening to the silences between them and finding the stories that haven’t yet been told. Objects are carriers of memory, but they also invite new interpretations. Tammy hopes to continue shaping the Jewish Museum of Buenos Aires into a regional reference point for research, education, and meaningful engagement with Jewish history and memory.
Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn to follow her work with the Jewish Museum of Buenos Aires.
Dr. Selim Han Yeniacun
Graduation Year: 2018
Faculty/Department: MA in Israel Studies
Current Job Title: Associate Prof. & Ph.D.
Organization: Marmara University
Industry: Academia
Since earning his MA in Israel Studies at the Rothberg International School (RIS) at the Hebrew University, Dr. Selim Han Yeniacun has pursued a dynamic academic and professional path. He went on to earn his PhD in Global Studies at Shanghai University and currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Middle Eastern and Islamic Countries Studies at Marmara University in Istanbul. His research has been published in prestigious journals and presented at international conferences. He also works as a political consultant on Middle Eastern affairs and regional diplomacy and recently founded the "Bölge Araştırmaları Merkezi" (Center for Regional Studies), an initiative aimed at advancing interdisciplinary research and student engagement in international relations.
Dr. Selim Han Yeniacun vividly remembers sitting in the Mount Scopus campus library late at night, overlooking the lights of East Jerusalem, while studying texts in English, Hebrew, and Arabic. The quiet intensity of those evenings, surrounded by centuries of intertwined histories and languages, left a lasting impression on him. He also appreciated attending multilingual seminars where Israeli, Palestinian, and international students engaged in passionate, respectful debates. Those encounters not only deepened his academic understanding but also shaped his belief in the transformative power of dialogue across cultural and political divides.
He aspires to contribute to a more nuanced and multidisciplinary understanding of the Middle East by producing high-impact research, mentoring the next generation of scholars, and promoting dialogue between academic, diplomatic, and policy-making communities. His long-term goal is to establish an international research institute that bridges scholars from the Global South with Western academia to address global challenges from diverse perspectives.
Connect with Dr. Selim Han Yeniacun on LinkedIn to follow his latest research and policy work.
Elianne Kremer
Graduation Year: 2018
Faculty/Department: Glocal: MA in International Development
Current Job Title: Associate
Organization: Ánima
Industry: Research, Monitoring, Evaluation, & Learning
Elianne Kremer, alumna of the Glocal International Development Studies program, considers serving some of the most vulnerable communities in Israel to be among her biggest achievements since completing her MA. As part of her degree, she completed a four-month internship that allowed her to gain hands-on experience in community development and human rights work.
Following her graduation, she led the Department of Research and International Relations at the Negev Coexistence Forum for Civil Equality, working to advance Israel’s human rights standards and obligations. She later served as Head of Mission with IsraAID in Peru, providing humanitarian aid in the aftermath of the March 2017 floods. Elianne then became Global Programs Manager at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, where she trained hundreds of young Jewish professionals in community and international development work.
Elianne’s fondest memory from her time at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem was interacting with her fellow students, who came from diverse countries including Nepal, Rwanda, Zambia, and Israel. The kaleidoscope of experiences and perspectives within her cohort enriched every learning session.
After recently returning to Uruguay, Elianne has focused her expertise on creating local impact through several key roles. She currently serves as Head of Philanthropic Relations at ÁNIMA, a non-profit dedicated to providing vulnerable youth with the tools to complete high school and transition into the labor market through strategic partnerships with local companies. Her commitment to the Glocal community remains strong, and she recently received Glocal seed funding for alumni to support Ánima’s Academy of Employability - directly benefiting her students' professional growth.
In addition to her work with Ánima, Elianne is building the resource development department at Escuela Integral, the primary Jewish school in Montevideo. She is also an active member of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Global Alumni Association and is working to foster an international alumni community in Uruguay (join the community’s WhatsApp group here!)
Connect with Elianne on LinkedIn to follow where her work in international development takes her next.
Nathaniel Sugarman
Graduation Year: 2014
Faculty/Department: Faculty of Law
Current Job Title: Corporate Attorney
Organization: Pearl Cohen Zedek Latzer Baratz LLP
Industry: Corporate Law; Start-ups
Nate Sugarman, an alumnus from Hebrew University’s Law Faculty, is building a noteworthy career as a corporate lawyer representing innovative start-ups in the global business ecosystem. As a Senior Associate at Pearl Cohen, an international law firm with offices in Israel, the US, and Europe, Nate represents entrepreneurs and companies on the cutting edge of life sciences and tech, helping them to solve complex legal issues and to bring their ideas into practice.
Nate remembers Hebrew University fondly as “a special place where I felt surrounded by smart, interesting people from around the world, where the study of law was enriched by the related disciplines of ethics, psychology, and history”. Nate believes that being a great lawyer, in addition to requiring an understanding of how to efficiently navigate the law, requires a strong ethical foundation, knowledge of history, and effective communication.
Following his graduation, having lived in the US, Europe, and Israel, Nate’s unique international perspective has enhanced his career, where he has used his experience to handle intricate cross-border transactions for his clients, and effectively communicate to stakeholders across borders and cultures.
In addition to his work, Nate enjoys mentoring students and young professionals, particularly Olim in Israel and new immigrants in the US. Nate looks to the “wealth of ethical teachings offered by the ancient Jewish tradition”, like “the responsibility to welcome the stranger, and the many obligations connected with learning and teaching” as guiding principles.
His advice to students: “Life is precious and short, so surround yourself with smart, positive people who enjoy life, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice when you are stuck. In my experience, some of the people who I consider the most successful have been the most generous to me with their time and guidance.”
Connect with Nate on LinkedIn to learn more about his work!
Connect with Nate on LinkedIn here to learn more about his work!
Hadas Tamar Pahima
Graduation Year: 2022
Faculty/Department: PhD in Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy
Current Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow
Organization: Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School
Industry: Academic
Dr. Hadas Tamar Pahima is advancing scientific understanding of immune responses through her postdoctoral research on mast cells in allergic diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. Her findings have been shared at international conferences and are set to be published, contributing to the field of allergy research.
She also volunteers with Wiser, empowering Israeli women who are postdocs by connecting them with senior scientists at universities in Israel. Additionally, she volunteers with Edge Young Professionals where she fosters community among young Israeli and Jewish professionals.
Hadas fondly recalls her time as a teaching assistant at the Hebrew University, where lively discussions with students deepened her appreciation for collaboration and mutual learning.
Hadas’ ultimate goal? To open her own research lab at the Hebrew University and contribute to breakthroughs in allergy treatments. She is also committed to continuing to mentor others and give back to her community.
Connect with Hadas on LinkedIn
Daniel Dorfman
Graduation Year: 2025
Faculty/Department: MA in Smart Cities and Urban Informatics
Current Job Title: Municipal Innovations Leader
Organization: Municipal Innovation Center
Industry: Smart Cities
Daniel Dorfman is shaping Israel’s urban life through his work in smart cities and municipal innovation. After completing his MA in Smart Cities and Urban Informatics at the Hebrew University in 2025, he joined the Municipal Innovation Center as a Municipal Innovation Leader, where he’s busy translating complex urban challenges into actionable solutions. Whether mapping AI use cases, building the MiC Solution Table, or hosting city teams, Daniel brings municipalities and startups together, turning innovation into real services that improve residents’ daily lives.
His approach focuses on practical, people-centered impact. He coordinates projects, events, and content while keeping stakeholders aligned, ensuring technological solutions truly serve communities. By connecting local authorities with data-informed, partner-friendly solutions, he helps make Israel’s urban spaces more efficient, livable, and forward thinking.
Daniel fondly recalls his time at the Hebrew University, where everyday interactions grew into meaningful personal and professional connections, reinforcing his belief that showing up matters. His aim to turn good ideas into real solutions that improve urban life, without ever losing the curiosity of a student.
Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn
Rodrigo Baumworcel
Graduation Year: 2021
Faculty/Department: Melton Center for Jewish Education
Current Job Title: Rabbi
Organization: Kehilat Halev
Industry: Religion
As a Rabbi at Kehilat Halev in Tel Aviv, Rodrigo Baumworcel creates inclusive spaces that bring people closer to tradition and community. After making Aliyah from Brazil, Rodrigo began his journey with a passion for building a better society, collaborating with NGOs, before stepping into his role as a spiritual leader.
During challenging times, Rodrigo has supported families through grief and his community’s sense of belonging. His work bridges generations, blending education and tradition to inspire hope for a brighter future.
Reflecting on his Master’s Degree in Jewish Education at Hebrew University, Rodrigo cherishes the profound insights he gained from his teachers and their introductions to the great minds of Jewish thought, fueling his commitment to contribute to Israeli society.
Connect with Rodrigo on LinkedIn to learn more about his mission and vision.
Graduation Year: 1991
Faculty/Department: First Year Study Abroad, Rothberg International School
Current Job Title: Screenwriter, Producer, & Showrunner
Organization: Knight Films
Industry: Film & TV
Cynthia Knight
Cynthia Knight is an accomplished screenwriter, producer, and showrunner. She created the TV dramedy Mohawk Girls, which challenged stereotypes about Indigenous communities, and wrote the feature Indiana & The Legend of Otters, set to be filmed this month, celebrating the importance of protecting the natural world. Her goal as a writer is to tell stories that inspire and connect people through understanding and empathy.
She credits her year at the Hebrew University with opening her eyes to the wider world. Meeting people from diverse cultures, religions, and backgrounds shaped her outlook and gave her lifelong friends. Her biggest takeaway: go for it - even if you’re scared. You’ll rarely regret what you do, but often regret what you don’t.
Currently, she is seeking a production company for her new TV series, The Schwartz-Abondos, about a Canadian Jewish woman and an African Christian man navigating love and tradition. “It’s more important than ever to tell stories that humanize us and highlight our shared hopes and fears,” she says
Cynthia recently moderated the Canadian Friends of the Hebrew University’s Centennial Authors Spotlight Series (watch here) and continues to develop projects that bridge cultures. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
Graduation Year: 2008
Faculty/Department: Rothberg
International School
Current Job Title: Professor and Attorney
Company: Harvard University, Hasselt University, and de Saeger Advocatenkantoor
Industry: Law
Werner-Edouard De Saeger Van Nattenhaesdonck
Werner-Edouard de Saeger van Nattenhaesdonck has made remarkable strides in the fields of education and law. He has taught at both Oxford and Cambridge, leaving a lasting impression on the academic world. He also founded de Saeger Law, where he combines his legal expertise with a strong commitment to justice.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Werner-Edouard has served as a capstone mentor at Harvard Medical School and is actively involved in charitable and pro bono initiatives, reflecting his dedication to giving back to society.
An exchange law student at the Rothberg International School in 2007-2008, the diverse community at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem enriched Werner-Edouard’s understanding of law as a living and adaptive discipline, teaching him to think comparatively and see law as a bridge across cultures.
Under the guidance of Professor Allen Zysblat, Werner-Edouard immersed himself in Israeli law and Middle Eastern legal systems, discovering how legal traditions in the region weave together common law civil law religious law and local custom. Conversations spilled beyond the classroom into the cafes of the German Colony and the narrow streets of the Old City, where questions of justice identity and coexistence debated in lectures were part of everyday life.
The insights Werner-Edouard gained in Jerusalem have remained an enduring touchstone throughout his career as a lawyer, professor and advocate, particularly in his work on international law and human rights.
Connect with Werner-Edouard on LinkedIn to learn more about his inspiring journey!
Graduation Year: 2010 (Rothberg
International School - Exchange Semester)
Faculty/Department: Rothberg
International School
Current Job Title: Head Editor of Culture
Company: Weekendavisen, The Danish
Weekly
Industry: Journalism
Kathrine Tschemerinsky
Kathrine Tschemerinsky, an exchange alumna from Hebrew University’s Rothberg International School, has built an outstanding career in journalism. As Head Culture Editor at Weekendavisen, Denmark’s leading newspaper, she drives thoughtful discourse on cultural and global issues.
A Fulbright Scholarship to Columbia University marked a turning point in her journey, enriching her expertise in cultural analysis. Katherine has also delved deeply into Jewish identity, exploring its complexities in her writing, especially in light of recent global events.
Her advice to students: “If you don’t fit the box, go search for another one. Also: don’t take no for an answer.”
Email Katherine at kats@weekendavisen.dk to connect with her and learn more about her work.
Graduation Year: 2021
Faculty/Department: MA in MA in Conflict Research, Management and Resolution
Current Job Title: Outbound Sales & Operations Consultant
Company: De Jean Consulting LLC
Industry: SaaS
Scarlett De Jean
Scarlett De Jean, a Hebrew University graduate in Conflict Management, Research, and Resolution, has excelled in entrepreneurship and consulting. After successfully launching and selling her equity in a consumer goods brand, she founded De Jean Consulting LLC, where she now advises SaaS companies on outbound sales and operations strategies.
Scarlett is also passionate about giving back. She partners with Israel-focused nonprofits to secure funding for programs that allow non-Jewish future leaders to visit and experience Israel.
Reflecting on her time at Hebrew University, Scarlett treasures attending such a historic institution and meeting classmates from diverse backgrounds. She urges students and alumni to “connect with as many people as you can and explore as much of Hebrew University as possible” because these experiences often lead to meaningful opportunities.
Connect with Scarlett on LinkedIn to learn more about her career and initiatives.
Graduation Year: 1972
Faculty/Department: B.Sc. in Physics and Mathematics
Current Job Title: Physicist
Company: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Industry: Scientific research
Dr. Mordechai Rosen
Dr. Mordechai “Mordy” Rosen is an award-winning physicist whose groundbreaking work in plasma physics has shaped the future of clean energy. A 1972 graduate of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem with a BSc in Physics and Mathematics, Mordy went on to earn his PhD in Plasma Physics from Princeton University. He is a Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS) and a two-time recipient of its Excellence in Plasma Physics Award: first in 1990, for designing the world’s first laboratory x-ray laser, and again in 2022, for achieving a burning plasma.
His most remarkable milestone to date came in December 2022, when Mordy and his team at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved fusion ignition, a breakthrough more than 50 years in the making and a first in the history of the field. This momentous achievement marks a critical step toward carbon-free, inherently safe fusion energy.
The laser used for the experiment was the size of three football fields and had to target a fuel capsule only 1 millimeter in size. The team managed to compress that tiny target to just 50 microns - the width of a human hair - creating conditions hotter than the sun and enabling the fuel to begin fusing, just like in the core of a star. For the first time, the reaction produced more energy than was used to spark it.
While this technology is not yet ready for commercial use, Mordy remains optimistic that the next generation will get us there.
Mordy began his studies at the Hebrew University in 1969, as part of the first class to return to the Mount Scopus campus. He fondly recalls the rigor of those years: “What I’ve learned is that the best physicists aren’t necessarily the most brilliant - they’re the ones who work the hardest. And boy, did we work hard at the Hebrew University!”
He credits perseverance and the support of others for his success, noting, ” It helps when people believe in you - but you earn that belief through your accomplishments. Failure, I’ve found, is the best way to learn.”
Now 73, Mordy has no plans to retire. His passion for discovery continues to drive him forward – and so does his enduring sense of hope.
To contact Mordy about his research he can be reached via email at rosen2@llnl.gov.
Graduation Year: 2015
Faculty/Department: MA in Latin America and the Middle East Studies
Current Job Title: Creative Writing Teacher and Journalism Adjunct Professor
Company: Universidad de Palermo
Industry: Media and Communications
Delfina Korn
Delfina Korn, a graduate of Hebrew University with a specialization in Iberian America and the Middle East, has built an exciting career in media and communications. At the Universidad de Palermo she teaches students how to engage audiences through powerful storytelling. Delfina is also a freelance journalist, and her work can be found on Urgente 24 and La Nacion. Additionally, she is a published author of three fiction books, El Yanqui, Aguas Compartidas, and Prefiero Morir de Amor, showcasing her creative talent and passion for narrative.
Reflecting on her time at Hebrew University, Delfina cherishes the people she met, whose influence continues to shape her journey. She encourages students and alumni to “keep studying new things all the time,” emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning.
Connect with Delfina on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and publications.
Menty Bayleyen
Graduation Year: 2022
Faculty/Department: International MBA
Current Job Title: CEO and Founder
Company: NTM Advisors
Industry: Financial Services
Mark Manuylov
Mark Manuylov, an international MBA graduate, has achieved significant success in financial services. As CEO and Founder of NTM Advisors, Mark led his team to achieve over 3x returns on a VC fund portfolio and guided more than ten companies in securing international investments.
Mark’s passion extends beyond finance. He has been instrumental in supporting the Russian Jewish community’s integration into Israeli society. Since the Ukraine war began, Mark has assisted families with Aliyah, arranging housing, schools, and jobs while also raising funds to support those facing hardships during their move.
His philosophy emphasizes honesty, persistence, and cultural collaboration. Mark believes that true success stems from dedication to both professional goals and personal growth.
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn to explore his work and impact.
Graduation Year: 2021
Faculty/Department: MA in Jewish Studies
Current Job Title: Public Affairs Representative – Interfaith Relations
Company: Embassy of Israel to the United States
Industry: International Affairs / Diplomacy
Catherine Szkop
Catherine Szkop, a Hebrew University alumna with an MA in Jewish Studies, has established herself in international diplomacy, specializing in interfaith relations. Early in her career, she has coordinated major conferences to combat antisemitism, spoken at significant seminars like the “Nostrae Aetate and the Future of Catholic-Jewish Relations at a Time of Rising Antisemitism” at Franciscan University, and appeared on both Israeli and Polish TV channels to discuss the importance of Holocaust memory and the ongoing battle against antisemitism today. Her dedication to advocacy and bridge-building is central to her work.
Catherine also serves as a Board Member for the American Jewish League for Israel (AJLI), a scholarship program for U.S. citizens that helped her financially attend Hebrew University as well as provided a supportive network of present and past scholars.
Despite her time at Hebrew University being impacted by the pandemic, Catherine fondly recalls organizing spontaneous “walking tours” of Jerusalem with her friends, hosting a memorable Thanksgiving dinner with fellow members of her program, and forming deep connections with peers across Hebrew University. She highlights learning from distinguished professors and frequent field visits to significant locations in Jerusalem as uniquely enriching experiences.
Her advice to students and alumni: “Always look to network and make connections” and take advantage of internships, as a former intern at both Yad Vashem and World Jewish Congress while attending Hebrew University, which have been pivotal to her career.
Connect with Catherine on LinkedIn to explore her journey further.
Graduation Year: 2022
Faculty/Department: Master’s of Public Health / Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine
Current Job Title: Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Helpline Programme Manager
Company: UNFPA
Industry: UN Agency
Joseph Cirilo Deng Majak
Joseph Cirilo Deng Majak is a passionate advocate for sustainable healthcare in conflict-affected regions. A graduate of the Braun School of Public Health, Joseph’s research on South Sudan’s healthcare system sparked his career in global health.
He has held impactful roles, including Project Coordinator for Alliance for International Medical Action (ALIMA) in Nigeria, where he reduced malnutrition in Yobe State, and Medical Coordinator with Doctors of the World in Syria, where he developed rapid response protocols during cholera and COVID-19 outbreaks.
Now managing a GBV Helpline for UNFPB in South Sudan, Joseph ensures survivors of gender-based violence receive essential services like healthcare, legal aid, and counseling.
Joseph recalls Hebrew University as a hub for idea exchange and hands-on learning, shaping his aspirations to strengthen healthcare systems in fragile contexts. His long-term goals include mentoring professionals and advancing public health in South Sudan.
Connect with Joseph on LinkedIn to follow his impactful work
Rachel Broyde
Graduation Year: 2020
Faculty/Department: MA in Public Policy and Government
Current Job Title: Director of Development
Company: Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Israel
Industry: Non-profit
Rachel made history as the youngest female CEO of a city foundation in Israel in her most recent role as CEO of Efrat Development Foundations, where she lead transformative initiatives in education, mental health, community development, and security. She also previously worked for two cabinet members across different governments, gaining recognition for her leadership in policy and fundraising. Rachel was part of the inaugural "40 Under 40" HUJI cohort , celebrating exceptional young leaders.
Rachel advises aspiring professionals to build strong networks and lean on mentors and peers, which have been instrumental in her career.
Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn to learn more about her leadership journey.
Amir Goldman
Graduation Year: 1993
Faculty/Department: Rothberg International School
Current Job Title: Founder/Investor
Company: Susquehanna Growth Equity
Industry: Venture Capital
Amir, born in Israel to American parents, moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, as a child but kept a strong connection to Israel. During college, he took a transformative year abroad at the Rothberg International School at Hebrew University, where he met his future wife, Stacey. This experience deepened his connection to Israel and Jewish culture.
After college, Amir and Stacey married and moved to Israel, where Amir began working in venture capital. They later returned to the U.S. when Amir was accepted to Harvard Business School. Following graduation, he joined a VC firm focused on helping Israeli tech companies expand in the U.S.
In 2006, Amir founded Susquehanna Growth Equity, specializing in software and fintech investments. He has also taught at Wharton and remains active in his Philadelphia community. Throughout his career, he has held significant roles in VC firms and served on various boards, including B-Stock, HighRadius, and Payoneer.
Jing Song
Graduation Year: 2015
Faculty/Department: PhD in Immunology
Current Job Title: Senior Scientist
Company: InduPro
Industry: Medical Research
Jing Song from China, inspired by her aunt, pursued her dream of studying abroad by joining the Hebrew University of Jerusalem after earning her M.D. From 2007 to 2010, she conducted biochemistry research as a post-doc, focusing on anticancer drugs and metabolic diseases. She then embarked on a Ph.D. in immunology at Hebrew University, contributing to the development of a new drug candidate for multiple sclerosis.
Living in Israel expanded Jing's worldview, significantly influencing her personally and professionally. Now a postdoctoral research associate in Seattle at the Benaroya Research Institute, Jing works on rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases, has authored numerous medical publications, and presents her research internationally.
Jing credits her time at Hebrew University for her successful career in immunology, highlighting the invaluable research skills and mentorship she received, which paved the way for her contributions to the field.
Dr. James Brief
Graduation Year: 2000
Faculty/Department: Rothberg International School
Current Job Title: Pediatrician
Company: Tribeca Pediatrics
Industry: Pediatric Gastroenterology
Dr. James Brief, an alumnus of Hebrew University and Chief Medical Officer of FoodMarble Digestive Health, studied at Hebrew U from August 1999 to January 2000, focusing on Hebrew, Talmud, Jerusalem's history, and Middle Eastern mythology. His experience at Hebrew U, especially witnessing Israel's humanitarian response to Turkey's earthquake, inspired him to volunteer in Haiti after its earthquake in 2010. This act of kindness influenced his career in pediatric gastroenterology.
In 2016, during his fellowship, he co-founded FoodMarble after learning about a project to develop a portable hydrogen breath test device, AIRE, from an Irish engineer, Dr. Aonghus Shortt. AIRE, a pocket-sized breath analyzer, helps users understand how undigested foods cause symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain by measuring fermentation gases. It aims to improve users' understanding of their digestive systems and diet by analyzing breath samples and tracking food intake through an app, providing insights into foods that might cause discomfort.
Connect with Dr. James Brief on LinkedIn.
Menty Bayleyen
Graduation Year: 2003
Faculty/Department: International Relations & Sociology
Current Job Title: Senior Associate Director of Admissions
Company: University of Pennsylvania
Industry: Academia
Menty Bayleyen, an Israel native, cherished her time at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) from 1999 to 2003, studying International Relations and Sociology-Anthropology. This experience, marked by academic growth, critical thinking development, and lasting friendships, profoundly influenced her. After earning her B.A., Menty taught languages and advised students until 2010. Her passion for academia then led her to the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) for a master's in Higher Education Management, where she also engaged in various leadership and mentorship roles.
In 2013, Menty relocated to New York City to manage admissions and clinical placements for New York University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program, a role she held for five years. She returned to Penn as the Associate Director of Admissions at Penn Dental Medicine, focusing on admissions management, student advisement, and promoting diversity and inclusion. Her career path was inspired by her positive experiences at HU, reinforcing her commitment to higher education.
Connect with Menty on LinkedIn.